Biswa Ijtema, one of the world's largest gatherings of Muslims, kicked off Friday, January 31, 2025, on the banks of the Turag River in Tongi, just outside the capital, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tens of thousands of devotees gathered for the first phase of the three-day event, marking the congregation with prayers, sermons, and communal activities.
This year’s officials expect hundreds of thousands to participate, with the event set to conclude on Sunday, February 2, 2025. Following the tradition established in the 1950s by the Tablighi Jamaat movement, the gathering focuses on reinforcing Islamic teachings and fostering community among Muslims.
According to the organizing committee, approximately 2,150 foreign Muslims from 72 countries were part of the diverse crowd. The event opened with general sermons by renowned Islamic scholars, including well-known cleric Maulana Ziaul Huq from Pakistan. Commencing after Fajr prayers, the sermons aimed to inspire and educate attendees on core Islamic practices.
Security measures were heavily reinforced this year, with thousands of law enforcement officers deployed, including plainclothes personnel, to maintain safety and order. A.K.M. Shahidur Rahman, director-general of the elite Rapid Action Battalion, assured attendees there were no specific security threats but emphasized preparedness. The area was also monitored using advanced surveillance techniques to secure the devotees attending from various parts of Bangladesh and abroad.
A notable attendee, Mohammed Nadim, who traveled overnight from the northern district of Rangpur, shared his sentiments with The Associated Press. "I come here every year to seek blessings. It gives me peace," he expressed. Nadim emphasized the sense of collective prayer as attendees raised their hands together, calling for peace both personally and globally.
The first phase of the Biswa Ijtema has been characterized by devotion-filled gatherings where Muslims engage deeply with their faith. Many attendees found solace and solidarity with fellow believers, creating an atmosphere of unity and reflection. Throughout the day, participants engage not only in prayers but also prepare meals for each other, fostering camaraderie.
The subsequent phases of the Biswa Ijtema will be held on February 3-5 and February 14-16, with each phase attracting different groups of devotees from across the region. Historically, these phases help integrate various communities within the broader Islamic faith, with teachings catering to diverse congregants.
Attendees often rest under makeshift tents erected along the riverbank, remaining engaged with the day's activities as they wait for the next prayers or sermons. This unique environment cultivates fellowship among worshippers, reinforcing the communal aspects of their faith.
Overall, the significance of the Biswa Ijtema extends beyond religious observance; it serves as one of the world’s significant platforms for Muslims to gather, share, and practice their beliefs amid like-minded individuals. Every year, the event brings together devotees who see it as not just a religious obligation but also as a source of hope and revitalization.
With its history spanning decades, the Biswa Ijtema remains integral to Bangladesh's religious identity and is regarded as the second-largest Muslim gathering after the Hajj. The impact of such events continues to resonate, as they reinforce Muslim faith and community bonds across borders.